Showing posts with label Braised Duck. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Braised Duck. Show all posts

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

Song Yue Taiwan Cuisine (松悦台式料理) @ Kallang Leisure Park - Launches Banquet Dishes (辦桌菜)

IMG_7867

Song Yue Taiwan Cuisine at Leisure Park Kallang has recently launched a new menu based on the culinary tradition of 辦桌菜 (bàn zhuō cai) or 'banquet dishes'. Originating in the 17th century, 辦桌 are gatherings typically held to celebrate occasions.

IMG_7824
Celebratory Lobster Combination Platter 5/5

We started with Song Yue's Celebratory Lobster Combination Platter ($88.8 – Medium / $128.8 – Large) featuring five distinct dishes that synergised well with one another with their different flavour profiles and texture - Lobster and Fruit Salad, Chicken Tossed in Sesame Oil, Soy Braised Duck Wings, Spring Onion Marinated Abalone and Century Eggs in Shrimp Paste. Each dish had its merits, but what stood out for me were the flavourful and tender duck wings as well as the century eggs done in the style of a classic scotch egg.

IMG_7844
Traditional Chicken with Pig's Stomach and Abalone Soup 4.5/5

Next was a nourishing Traditional Chicken with Pig's Stomach and Abalone Soup ($98.8). The chicken, stuffed with pig stomach, ginkgo nuts, and baby abalone, is stewed in a superior pork and chicken broth for five hours, resulting in a collagen-rich broth, as reflected in its yellow hue. Unlike a typical Pig's stomach soup, which may occasionally be quite gamey, this is more of a chicken soup with added benefits of a pig's stomach soup.

IMG_7870
Steamed Live Lobster Rice Cake 5/5

My favourite dish of the evening was the Steamed Live Lobster Rice Cake ($88.8 for medium, $158.8 for large). Beyond the succulent lobster, the Taiwan glutinous rice, infused with pork belly, dried conpoy, shiitake mushrooms, and dried shrimp, was deeply flavourful and aromatic. Topped with garlic oil and fried garlic, it had a perfect balance of richness and savoury notes, and each bite of it just got more and more delicious.

IMG_7906
Golden Phoenix-Tail Tiger Prawns 4.5/5

The Golden Phoenix-Tail Tiger Prawns ($35.8 for medium, $55.8 for large) were another highlight. Giant tiger prawns were wrapped in beancurd skin with a seafood mix, salted egg yolk, century egg, and coriander filling. Skillfully fried to a crisp golden brown, they were paired with a well-matched homemade sweet and sour sauce.

IMG_7886
Braised Pork Knuckle with Homemade Mustard Greens 4/5

The Braised Pork Knuckle with Homemade Mustard Greens ($58.8) was a rich, fork-tender dish. The pork knuckle was braised for three and a half hours. However, I felt the mustard greens could have been more bittersweet to better balance the richness of the pork and gravy.

IMG_7895
Handmade Crispy Duck with Taro 3.8/5

Lastly, the Handmade Crispy Duck with Taro ($48.8) featured duck slices encased in creamy yam paste and deep-fried to a light and crispy finish. While the flavours were good, the dish could have benefited from a thicker yam layer, as the portions without enough yam felt a little dry.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Song Yue Taiwan Cuisine
(松悦台式料理)
5 Stadium Walk
#01-38/39
Singapore 397693
Tel: +65 6988 3322
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Stadium (CC Line), Tanjong Rhu (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm
Fri-Sat, Eve PH: 1130am - 330pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Stadium MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Rhu MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk towards the river. Cross the bridge to indoor stadium. Cut across the open air carpark towards Stadium Crescent Road. Walk to Kallang Theatre. Turn right onto Stadium Walk. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Friday, July 12, 2024

Choon Hoy Parlor (春花) @ Beach Road - A Singapore Soul Food Haven

ChoonHoyParlor66

With the relocating of The Masses, the space has been transformed into a new concept by Chef Dylan Ong — Choon Hoy Parlor (春花). This cosy spot offers Singapore soul food, featuring a multicultural smorgasbord of heritage and heirloom recipes and hawker dishes close to the heart of Singaporeans.

ChoonHoyParlor7
Mini Fried Pomfret 3/5

We began our dinner with the Mini Fried Pomfret ($8.90/5pc, $15.90/10pc), deep-fried to a delightful crisp. Paired with the accompanying Plum Tao Cheong Dip, it was a pleasant start, though it didn't quite stand out among the other offerings.

ChoonHoyParlor14
CHP Signature Our Rojak, Our Own Way 4.2/5

The CHP Signature Our Rojak, Our Own Way ($8.90) is a refreshing, modern take on the traditional local rojak. It comprises seasonal fresh vegetables like starfruits, Japanese cucumbers, jicama, and rose apple, topped with house-made Rojak ice cream and garnished with You Tiao, century eggs, and peanuts. This innovative twist on a classic dish was a delightful explosion of flavours and textures.

ChoonHoyParlor15
CHP Signature Salad: Ulam 3/5

Next, we tried the traditional Malaysian dish, the CHP Signature Salad: Ulam ($15.90). Served cold on crushed ice, it featured fresh seasonal vegetables like paku fern, white corn, rose apple, jicama, lady's finger, Japanese cucumber, papaya, and seldom leaves. It was accompanied by Sambal Belacan and Ginger Flower Emulsion dips. While refreshing, the raw vegetables might not appeal to everyone.

ChoonHoyParlor22
Coin Prata 5/5

The Coin Prata ($8.90) served like a taco paired with lamb masala and mint yoghurt, was a highlight. The lamb masala, which Chef Dylan learned from an Indian chef, was robust and flavourful. Coupled with the crispy prata, this dish was an explosion of flavours and textures—a must-try!

ChoonHoyParlor27
Pork Tongue 3.8/5

Having eaten beef tongue before, I was intrigued by the Pork Tongue. It was more tender than beef tongue and served in a Thai-style spicy sauce paired with a crispy cracker. If I hadn't known, I would have thought it was beef brisket due to its melt-in-the-mouth texture.

ChoonHoyParlor35
CHP Signature White Pepper Pig Stomach Collagen Soup 4/5

Served in a claypot, the CHP Signature White Pepper Pig Stomach Collagen Soup ($25.90) was hearty and comforting. The peppery soup, comprising whole garlic cloves, winter melon, goji berries, pig stomach, taukee, and chives, was a warm, satisfying delight.

ChoonHoyParlor39
CHP Signature 16Hrs Bone-in Coffee Angus Short Rib 4.5/5

Inspired by the local zichar dish coffee Pork Ribs — the CHP Signature 16Hrs Bone-in Coffee Angus Short Rib ($69/700-800g) was an elevated interpretation. The fork-tender beef short rib, grilled over binchotan and glazed with coffee umami sauce, was further garnished with fried garlic chips for an aromatic finish. This dish was a standout.

ChoonHoyParlor47
Teochew Braised Duck 4.8/5

ChoonHoyParlor50

One of my favourite dishes was the Teochew Braised Duck ($69). Served with a set of condiments, including Tau Kwa Pau, sambal chilli, chopped boiled eggs, cucumbers, and yam mixed with fried hae bee hiam and fish cake, the braised whole duck leg was well-flavoured by the braising sauce for 1.5 hours and tender and succulent. The accompanying Tau Kwa Pau, a disappearing hawker dish, offered an additional way to enjoy this delightful dish.

ChoonHoyParlor53
Ayam Goreng Berempah 3.8/5

A good change from the usual Har Cheong Kai was the Ayam Goreng Berempah ($15.90/6pc). Instead of the usual whole chicken leg, it featured chicken winglets and drumsticks for a finger-licking good experience. Topped with serunding, it offered great textures and aroma.

ChoonHoyParlor59
CHP Signature Hainanese Kampong Chicken 3.5/5

ChoonHoyParlor61
A Lil Lard, A Lil Soy, A Lil Love Rice (Triple L)

The CHP Signature Hainanese Kampong Chicken ($15.90/Half, $28.90/Full) uses poached kampong chicken steamed with spring onion, ginger, and garlic. Served with minced vegetables lightly cooked in oil, soy sauce, sliced cucumbers, spring onion, and chopped ginger condiment, this iconic Singapore dish is best enjoyed with a bowl of Triple L Pork Lard Rice ($3).

ChoonHoyParlor69
CHP X Jelebu Signature Dry Laksa V2.0 3/5

The CHP X Jelebu Signature Dry Laksa V2.0 ($18.90) was wetter than expected. While the rempah was robust and fragrant, the strong cockles' flavour was not to my liking. However, I heard the restaurant has tweaked the recipe for an even more delicious version.

ChoonHoyParlor75
Yuzu Citron Cheng Tng 4.5/5

The Yuzu Citron Cheng Tng ($10.90) was an elevated take on the traditional Chinese clear soup dessert. It was simmered until flavorful with rock sugar, dried longan, dates, white fungus, sea coconut, karaya gum, and Korean yuzu citron, which gave the clear soup a deliciously new dimension.

ChoonHoyParlor76
CHP Signature Durian Chendol 4/5

Another local dessert inspiration was the CHP Signature Durian Chendol ($13.90). A gula melaka sponge cake base topped with pandan jellies, kidney beans, coconut ice cream, D24 durian puree, and corn espuma sauce, this luxe version of the traditional chendol dessert was a delightful end to our meal.

Choon Hoy Parlor (春花) is a gem for those seeking to relive the comfort and nostalgia of Singapore soul food. Chef Dylan Ong's innovative take on traditional dishes offers a fresh, contemporary twist that still holds true to its roots. Whether you're in the mood for a light snack or a hearty meal, Choon Hoy Parlor promises a dining experience that's both satisfying and memorable.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Choon Hoy Parlor (春花)
85 Beach Road
#01-02
Singapore 189694
Tel: +65 6266 0061
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 930pm
Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to North Bridge Road. Cross the road to Tan Quee Lan Street. Walk down Tan Quee Lan Street to Beach Road. Turn right onto Beach Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, June 23, 2024

Shao (烧) Modern Teochew Dining @ Rangoon Road - The Group's Third Outlet In The Quiet Corner of Little India

ShaoModernTeochew9

ShaoModernTeochewExterior-2

SHAO (烧), with its flagship restaurant at Frankel, has recently opened a third outlet at Rangoon Road, named SHAO Modern Teochew Dining. This new venue offers a contemporary take on Teochew cuisine. The interior presents a captivating blend of modern and traditional aesthetics, with part of the dining hall resembling a Chinese opera stage, adding to the unique dining experience.

ShaoModernTeochew15
Teochew Cold Roe Crab 4.2/5

As a Teochew, I couldn't resist trying the Teochew Cold Roe Crab ($78 for 400-500g). The meat was sweet and packed with umami roe, capturing the essence of crustacean flavours. They also offer an elevated BBQ Roe Crab version, which I'm eager to try next time.

ShaoModernTeochew2

ShaoModernTeochew8
Stewed Iberico Pork with Soy Bean Paste 4.5/5

This was my first encounter with the Stewed Iberico Pork with Soy Bean Paste ($38/$58). Served in a piping hot claypot, the tender Iberico pork is simmered in a sweet, tangy broth reminiscent of the Salted Vegetable Duck Soup. This dish stood out for its rich flavours and comforting taste.

ShaoModernTeochew23
Braised Combination Platter 3/5

Braised items are a staple in Teochew cuisine, so I had to order the Braised Combination Platter ($28/$38), which includes braised duck, pig trotter, and tau kwa. Among the three, the pig trotter was the most enjoyable for its tenderness. However, the duck meat was a bit dry, and the braising sauce needed to have the fragrant depth I was hoping for, failing to infuse the ingredients adequately.

ShaoModernTeochew27
Stir-fried Fish Noodle with Seafood 4/5

For our carbo dish, we chose the Stir-fried Fish Noodle with Seafood ($18). The noodle texture was unique, being bouncier than the regular noodles. Adding truffle and stir-frying lent an earthy note and smokiness, while the roes provided a savoury uplift, making it a delightful dish.

ShaoModernTeochew32
Mix Fruit Pai in Teochew Style 3/5

We wrapped up our dinner with the simple Mix Fruit Pai in Teochew Style ($10). This dish features cut fruits in a sour plum and liquorice root sauce, offering a refreshing end to the meal. Their Orh Nee is also highly recommended for those seeking something more traditional.

SHAO Modern Teochew Restaurant at Rangoon Road successfully blends contemporary and traditional elements, both in its ambience and its culinary offerings. While some dishes stood out more than others, the overall dining experience was enjoyable, making it a worthy addition to the Teochew dining scene in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shao (烧) Modern Teochew
223 Rangoon Road 
#01-01/02
Singapore 218460
Tel: +65 69932223
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Farrer Park (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Farrer Park MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to the traffic junction of Tessensohn Road and Rangoon Road. Cross the road and walk to Rangoon Road. Walk to the end of Rangoon Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, May 16, 2024

Tien Court @ Copthorne King’s Hotel - Celebrates 35th Anniversary With A Fresh Menu

IMG_3911

Tien Court, located at Copthorne King’s Hotel, celebrates its 35th anniversary with a fresh menu curated by Master Chef Lui. With a lifelong dedication to Teochew cuisine and a profound cultural insight, Chef Lui's menu highlights the natural flavors and freshness of ingredients, ranging from seafood to poultry and vegetables.

IMG_3900
Assorted Dim Sums 4/5

The Dim Sum menu is a highlight, featuring delectable offerings like the Teochew Steamed Crystal Dumpling, plump with a juicy mixture of dried shrimp, preserved radish, and turnip, wrapped in delicate translucent skin. Equally delightful is the pan-seared Teochew Chai Kueh, boasting a well-made kueh skin with a tasty seared exterior. One notable item is the Crispy Teochew Dumpling, featuring an airy crust filled with succulent prawn and bamboo shoot.

IMG_3910
Double-boiled Fish Maw Nourishing Soup 5/5

The Double-boiled Fish Maw Nourishing Soup was stunning with a generous portion of premium fish maw complemented by chicken collagen, bamboo shoots, and an array of herbs. Slow-cooked for hours, the result was a velvety broth with a rich depth of flavor, offering a nourishing and satisfying experience.

IMG_3958
Braised Sliced Silver Hill Irish Duck 4/5

An elevated take on the traditional Teochew braised duck is the Braised Sliced Silver Hill Irish Duck. While the use of Irish duck doesn't necessarily make the dish tastier than its regular counterpart, the addition of extra fats enhances its richness. However, what stood out for me is the aromatic and herbaceous braising sauce.

IMG_3966
Signature Teochew Puning Fermented Bean Chicken 4.5/5

The Signature Teochew Puning Fermented Bean Chicken showcases the unique ingredient of Puning fermented bean paste. This dish features a whole chicken marinated in a mixture of Puning fermented beans — a specialty from the city of Puning — along with aromatics like ginger and pandan leaves. The chicken is gently baked in a claypot over fire. The meat emerged succulent, accompanied by a sauce that balanced sweetness with a subtle tang, offering a complex and enticing flavour profile.

IMG_3948
Pan-fried Cod Fish with Superior Soy Sauce 5/5

IMG_3925
Signature Braised White Teat Sea Cucumber 5/5

We had 2 excellent seafood dishes. The Pan-fried Cod Fish was executed with a perfect crust flavoured with a light superior soy sauce. The Signature Braised White Teat Sea Cucumber in oyster sauce is a memorable dish - Deep fried after braising, the sea cucumber had a delectable chewy and bouncy texture, contrasted with its crisp skin. This preparation also allowed it to absorb the oyster sauce better, elevating its flavours.

IMG_3942
Teochew-style Oyster Omelette 3.5/5

The Teochew-style Oyster Omelette is prepared with Master Chef Lui’s special fish sauce blend. The egg and flour mixture is fried to a crisp perfection, with plump oysters nestled beneath it. While the dish delivered as expected, juicier and plumper oysters would have elevated its taste and flavour.

IMG_3978
Signature Teochew Wok-fried Hor Fun 4/5

Signature Teochew Wok-fried Hor Fun with diced kailan and preserved radish hor fun boasts a remarkable infusion of wok hei. While the hor fun base itself leans slightly towards the bland side, it's elevated by the abundance of umami-rich flavors and textures from the other ingredients. Each mouthful is a delightful combination of wok hei and diverse flavours.

IMG_3988
Steamed Yam Paste 5/5

The Steamed Yam Paste 'Orh Nee' with pumpkin and gingko nut stands out as one of the finest I've tasted from a restaurant. The yam paste had the right amount of sweetness, complemented by tiny yam chunks within that added texture. For those craving extra sweetness, a side of sugar syrup is provided.

IMG_3994

Other than A curated range of set menus with Individual and Group Set Menus are available, priced from $78 per person for a 7-course exploration menu to 8-course family-style menu for a party of 10 for $1,088.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Tien Court Restaurant
Copthorne King's Hotel
403 Havelock Road
Level 2
Singapore 169631
Tel: +65 63183193/ 63183198
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Havelock (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk straight down Havelock Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to bus stop opposite opposite Holiday Inn Atrium (Stop ID 06149). Take bus number 51, 64, 123, or 186. Alight 1 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Ducking Good (好吃鸭) @ Geylang Road - One Stop Duck Specialist Restaurant For Delicious Duck Dishes Cooked In All Forms

DuckingGood9

Nestled in the bustling streets of Geylang, Ducking Good (好吃鸭) emerges as a new one-stop haven for duck enthusiasts. With an impressive menu offering no less than ten inventive ways to enjoy duck, this duck specialist restaurant promises a ducking good time through the rich and diverse world of duck cuisine. From roasted to braised, salted to spiced, every dish is thoughtfully paired with complementary sides to elevate the dining experience.

DuckingGoodInterior-2

Don't miss out on their opening promotion, which is a steal. Enjoy 50% OFF SIGNATURE DUCK DISHES on rotation weekly for dine-in only. Limited to one redemption per table per bill.

OPENING PROMOTION
Enjoy 50% OFF SIGNATURE DUCK DISHES on rotation weekly for dine-in only. Limited to one redemption per table per bill.

4 May - 10 May
- Signature Salted Duck (Whole - U.P. $69++)

11 May - 17 May
- Triple Ducking Platter (U.P. $49++) comprising Herbal Roast Duck, Signature Braised Duck and Signature Salted 

18 May - 24 May
- Herbal Roast Duck (Whole - U.P. $69++)

25 May - 31 May
- Signature Braised Duck (Whole - U.P. $69++)


DuckingGood1
Shi Quan Tonic Duck Soup 4/5

Our dinner began with the Shi Quan Tonic Duck Soup ($13.90), a nourishing double-boiled broth enriched with a medley of herbs. The soup boasts a rich, earthy flavour profile with a touch of sweetness and a hint of bitterness, creating a complex and layered taste. This soothing yet invigorating soup delights the palate and offers health benefits such as strengthening the body and boosting the immune system.

DuckingGood8
Double Ducking Platter (Herbal Roast & Braised) 3/5

Next, we indulged in the Double Ducking Platter ($39), featuring both Herbal Roasted Duck and Braised Duck. While both preparations were commendable, the herbal roasted duck stood out with its distinct and fragrant flavour. However, it is worth noting that the textures of both types of duck were slightly on the dry side.

DuckingGood15
Crispy Spiced Confit Duck Leg 4.2/5

Our undisputed evening favourite was the Crispy Spiced Confit Duck Leg ($13.90). This modern take on duck confit, dusted with a fragrant, spicy cumin mix, delivered a delightful crunch on the exterior while maintaining moist, tender meat. It's a must-try dish that exemplifies Ducking Good's innovative approach.

DuckingGood22
Braised Duck Claypot Porridge 3.5/5

The Braised Duck Claypot Porridge ($9.90) is a perfect choice for those seeking comfort food. The smooth and creamy porridge, enriched with duck gravy, provides a hearty meal on its own. However, we found the portion of duck meat to be somewhat scant.

DuckingGood6
Chilled Cucumber 4/5

The Chilled Cucumber ($3.90) stood out as a refreshing accompaniment among the side dishes. Crunchy cucumber slices tossed in fragrant chilli oil offered a pleasant contrast to the more decadent duck dishes.

DuckingGood14
Thai Sweet Chilli Tofu 3/5

Unfortunately, the Thai Sweet Chilli Tofu ($9.90) did not leave a lasting impression. While it was competently prepared, it lacked the distinctive flair that characterised the other dishes we sampled.

DuckingGoodInterior-1

In summary, Ducking Good in Geylang successfully combines various duck preparations that showcase traditional and modern culinary techniques. With standout dishes like the Shi Quan Tonic Duck Soup and Crispy Spiced Confit Duck Leg, this new duck specialist is poised to become a favourite among duck aficionados. Whether you're looking for a nourishing bowl of soup or an inventive take on duck confit, Ducking Good offers a delightful dining experience worth exploring.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ducking Good (好吃鸭)
487 Geylang Road
Singapore 389446
Tel: +65 8814 8366
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Aljunied (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 10am - 10pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Aljunied MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to the traffic light at Sims Avenue. Cross the road and walk down Geylang Lorong 25A. Turn left onto Geyland Road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]